It’s a slightly slimmed down selection this month after the glut of new releases in September, but no less exciting! Read on to discover my picks from October’s new sci-fi and science books.
Thinking Better: The Art of the Shortcut in Math and Life by Marcus du Sautoy
Du Sautoy, a professor for the Public Understanding of Science as well as a professor of math, explores the importance of math in our daily lives, including time-saving techniques such as calculus and diagramming and how math enables us to make quicker, smarter decisions.
The Quantum War by Derek Kunsken
The third installment of the Quantum Evolution series packs a punch: action-adventure blended with highly evolved humans, AI, and exploration of ethical issues, notably what does it mean to be human. There’s a lot going on in this universe, set 500 years in the future, so definitely start with book one if you’re new to the series.
From Data to Quanta: Niels Bohr’s Vision of Physics by Slobodan Perovic
A treat for physics fans. An in-depth look at the experiments of Danish scientist and Nobel prize-winner Niels Bohr, one of the key figures in the history of quantum physics.
Far From the Light of Heaven by Tade Thompson
A locked-room murder mystery set on a colony ship with a sinister AI, and apparently inspired by an Edgar Allen Poe story, this sounds like an engrossing read. Edge-of-your-seat tension from the author of the Wormwood trilogy, and likely to have crossover appeal to mystery fans who might not typically read sci-fi.
When the Sahara Was Green by Martin Williams
It’s hard to believe that the world’s largest desert was once a lush, green paradise, home to lakes and rivers and multiple species. Williams tells the story of its transformation over thousands of years and the lessons this offers for our own climate challenges.
Inhibitor Phase by Alastair Reynolds
Reynolds returns to his popular Revelation Space universe for this standalone space opera. Expect his trademark epic world building and some original human and alien characters (hyperpigs!) as humanity fights for survival against the machines known as inhibitors.
The Genome Defense: Inside the Epic Legal Battle to Determine Who Owns Your DNA by Jorge L. Contreras
A detail-packed account of the law suit against Myriad Genetics (known as AMP vs. Myriad) and the battle to prevent commercial companies patenting genes. The author, who specializes in genetics law, brings together the perspectives of scientists and activists, as well as the cancer patients whose lives depended on the outcome.
The Apollo Murders by Chris Hadfield
Famed Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield turns his hand to fiction in this cold-war thriller set in the 70s, based around a top-secret mission to the Moon. Being targeted towards fans of The Martian as well as readers of political thrillers, expect plenty of technical detail along with the intrigue and action.
That’s all for this month. Hopefully you found some interesting choices there to set you up for the darker evenings. And for my Canadian readers, have a great Thanksgiving long weekend!
Need to catch up?
New reads for September
New reads for August
